Wed Sep 25 09:00:00 UTC 2024: ## 88-Year-Old Roanoke Developer Faces Bankruptcy Fraud Charges
Roanoke real estate developer Richard Hamlett, known for his past marriage to actress Debbie Reynolds, is facing federal charges of bankruptcy fraud. He is accused of orchestrating a multi-step scheme involving filing false bankruptcy petitions to prevent the foreclosure of his personal property.
Hamlett, believed to be the oldest person charged with a felony in Roanoke’s federal court in recent years, is alleged to have filed multiple sham bankruptcy petitions for his firms, falsely claiming they were unable to repay debts. When two of the cases were dismissed, Hamlett allegedly forged his neighbor’s signature on a third petition, falsely claiming he was the neighbor’s nephew.
Prosecutors argue that Hamlett’s actions were deliberate and intended to deceive the court. They are seeking to exclude evidence of his age from the trial, arguing that it would rely on stereotypes rather than admissible proof.
Hamlett’s defense attorney argues that his age should be considered as one of many factors when assessing his actions. While he does not plan to introduce testimony from a mental health expert claiming he lacked criminal intent, the attorney believes the jury should be allowed to consider Hamlett’s age in light of the complexity of bankruptcy proceedings.
Judge Elizabeth Dillon ruled against the prosecution’s motion to exclude evidence of Hamlett’s age but warned both sides against relying on stereotypes and speculation regarding his age.
Hamlett faces charges of bankruptcy fraud, making a false bankruptcy declaration, perjury, and giving a false statement to law enforcement. His trial is scheduled to begin on October 1st and is expected to last at least two days.
First Piper 